Nubra Valley

Carved by the meandering Shyok and Nubra (Siachan) rivers approximately 150 km north of Leh, Nubra Valley in Leh Ladakh is known historically as Ldumra (the Valley of Flowers) in Jammu And Kashmir. Sitting at an average elevation of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters), this high altitude wonderland presents a surreal blend of silver sand dunes, roaring glacial rivers, lush apricot orchards, and jagged Karakoram mountain ranges.

Truth is, descending into the valley after crossing the snowy heights of Khardung La feels like entering a mythical Shangri La. The contrast between cold desert sand dunes at Hunder and snow crested mountain massifs creates one of the most unique geographic landscapes in Asia.

The crown jewel of Nubra Valley is the historic Diskit Monastery (Diskit Gompa), founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo. Dominating the valley from a rocky ridge above the village stands a colossal 106 foot (32 meter) outdoor statue of Maitreya Buddha (Jampa Buddha), facing downstream along the Shyok River toward Pakistan to protect the borderlands. Visiting Nubra pairs smoothly with Pangong Lake via the direct Shyok river route.

Hunder Sand Dunes and Double Humped Bactrian Camels

At Hunder, rolling white sand dunes rise directly alongside sea buckthorn thickets and babbling river streams. Here, travelers can ride rare double humped Bactrian camels, living descendants of pack animals that once traversed the ancient Silk Road caravan routes from Yarkand and Kashgar.

In the evening, the sand dunes glow in warm hues of amber and violet against the barren Karakoram peaks. Local Ladakhi folk troupes perform traditional jabro dances and folk songs around community campfires before heading toward Magnetic Hill.

Turtuk Village and Balti Heritage

Further downstream along the Shyok River lies Turtuk, one of the northernmost villages in India opened to tourists in 2010. Inhabited by ethnic Balti people who speak an ancient dialect of Ladakhi, Turtuk features stone masonry houses, wood carved mosques, and terraced fields producing the sweetest organic apricots in Ladakh.

Walking through Turtuk cobblestone alleys and crossing wooden suspension bridges offers a rare glimpse into Baltistan culture, distinct from the Buddhist gompa villages of central Ladakh. Mind you, tasting fresh apricot juice and visiting the heritage King House in Turtuk is highly recommended before returning to Hall of Fame.

Panamik Hot Springs, Permits, and Camp Stays

Along the eastern Nubra tributary sits Panamik, famous for its natural sulfur hot water springs renowned for therapeutic skin healing properties. Panamik also is the base for treks leading toward Ensa Gompa and the Siachen Glacier base camp.

Nubra offers a wide selection of luxury glamping tents, eco cottages, and family homestays in Hunder and Diskit. An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for all visitors. Combine your Nubra adventure with a journey to Shanti Stupa.